2016 Chevy Tahoe 4WD LTZ

Source: Victoria Mason It seems fitting that the last car I review for 2015 is one that we have actually considered buying, the 2016 Chevy Tahoe 4WD LTZ.  It is agreed that we are still a few years out from making the actual purchase but getting a feel for what the market has to offer in large SUV's or any other car purchase can take time.  It is a big buy and one not to be taken lightly. Our next vehicle has to be large, in charge (yeah, I said it) and able to haul the whole family with supplies for a week-long road trip and maybe even carry our beast of a Doberman.  That is not an easy find and I like to do more than just kick the tires. Driving the 2016 Chevy Tahoe LTZ for a week gave me the opportunity to think about what my family really needs for the future and that is always … [Read more...]

2015 Chrysler 300C AWD

Source: Chrysler.com The day the 'Velvet Red Pearl' coat Chrysler 300C AWD pulled into my driveway my oldest daughter was home sick from school. She declared it to be "the prettiest color car" I've ever reviewed.  The fleet driver laughed and agreed, it was his favorite too.  The striking color, intense lines and presence of the 300C continuously provided me with comments from others the entire week that I drove it, including that it was a "hot red car" making my friend even more excited about our Friday night movie plans. Source: Chrysler.com The thing I loved most about the 300C was its style.  It is a head turner in any color.  Inside and out the car beckons you to take in its lines and details.  From the classic Chrysler clock on the centerstack and the quilted leather lining the … [Read more...]

Drive-By Etiquette

It's that time of year again.  Lots of us will be hitting the highways and with it comes traffic, frustration and sometimes the occasional bout of bad behavior.  Here's some tips from Ford  and the Emily Post Institute on how to survive holiday travel this year and be nicer for it. DYK: Last Thanksgiving, AAA predicted that 46.3 million Americans traveled more than 50 miles from home – the greatest distance in nearly a decade. Enjoying the lowest gas prices in five years, AAA estimates that 90 percent of Americans will celebrate this year’s holiday with a road trip. Black Friday Week Sale - Use code: BLACKFRIWEEK - Up to 50% Off + 15% Off All Orders - Starts: 11/20/2015 Expires: 11/26/2015 11:59 PM … [Read more...]

2016 Fiat 500X Lounge AWD

Source: Victoria Mason "It's so cute!" I heard that phrase again and again as I posted pictures of the Fiat 500X Lounge on social media or when entering or exiting the SUV.  Yes, it is considered an SUV, but a subcompact one.  No one expected me to tell them that about this tiny car but it is larger than the you would think while still looking pint-sized and stylish. All new for 2016 the Fiat 500X Lounge AWD arrived at my door in all its 'Bianco Gelato' glory.  That's White Clear Coat for the rest of us but the Italian style must be mentioned and used. It's more fun to call the color 'Bianco Gelato', don't you think?  I loved its look instantly.  The smart black and red interior accents stirred up all sorts of excitement with anyone and everyone who got a look inside.  I loved the … [Read more...]

2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

Source: MazdaUSA Refreshed and ready for 2016 the Mazda CX-5 comes at you in a fully engaged, fun way.  I admit I was hesitant to drive it for a week due to my lack luster feelings on the CX-9 last year but then I remembered that I loved the 2015 CX-5 so I was eager to see what had changed in the last year. Mazda calls the CX-5 an overachiever and I have to agree.  This SUV handles itself well in so many categories while still being a joy to drive.  First, the Titanium Flash Mica paint job on the exterior drew me to it. It has a depth in its subtle brown shade with a touch of graphite paint color.  When I opened the door I was fell in love with the interior color of black and parchment.  It was a nice touch to the car that felt inviting each time I climbed into it. Source: Victoria … [Read more...]

Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8

Source: 2015 Hyundai Genesis I cannot tell you how excited I was to drive the 2015 Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8 this month.  My neighbor owns one in a light silver and I love the lines.  Mine came in a deeper gray called Empire State with black interior and wood grain throughout. Redesigned for 2015 this model boasts an upgraded interior and more room. It definitely felt spacious in the front and the back (3 more inches on wheelbase) and like the luxury sedan that it is. Since 2009 the Genesis has been showing buyers that a luxury car can also be sensible.  I'm looking at you 5-year/60,000 mile warranty on new vehicles and Hyundai's 10-year/100,000 Powertrain warranty. They both apply to the Genesis as well as 5-year roadside assistance and 7-year/unlimited mile anti-perforation warranty. … [Read more...]

Buckle Up

Source: aaa.com Seat belt safety isn't sexy but it is an important aspect to driving and riding safely. I like to think that makes it incredibly fashionable too. Did you know that you are 71% less likely to die in an accident if you are wearing your seat belt?   So buckle up and take a few tips provided by me and FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) to stay safe this summer and all year long.   … [Read more...]

2015 Kia Soul EV

  Source: Kia.com I have to admit that the 2015 Kia Soul EV took me by surprise, big time. I drove a Soul last year and it was cute and fun. The girls liked it more than I did.  Then the EV in 'Clear White' arrived and I got a bit of a crush.  First, it has a Star Wars Storm Trooper quality to it inside and out.  That got me excited to drive it right away.  Then, I spent a week with it and didn't want to give it back. This car is electric.  It contains a DC Fast Charge port (480V) and a 27kWh Lithium Ion polymer battery.   I used ChargePoint.com to find charging stations that did quick charges (2-3 hours for a full charge) and DC Fast Charge (30-40 minutes for 80% charge). There were more stations near me than I even knew.  Charging it up was easy, but daily, my one issue.  The … [Read more...]

Then & Now with a Ford Mustang

A lot can change in 17 years. A LOT. Proof.  This is H and me the night we met. Our first "date".  Back when dates could be filed under sorority formals. And this was the car that he drove to pick me up. A 1995 Ford Mustang in bright red. Source I cringed when he picked me up that night in that khaki vest.  I groaned aloud when I saw the car and made some remark about how it figured that a boy like him would drive a car like that.  We were a blind date. This was no normal meet-cute across the campus quad.  The rest is history.  We went on so many dates in that car.  I realized that this man can really make me laugh in almost any situation and smile. We took trips together and I helped him get his old Mustang ready to sell when he shipped off to Okinawa with the Marine Corps a few … [Read more...]

Must Have Summer Car Items

Summer is going to be here! The kids are out of school soon and it’s time to start planning your family’s agenda for the months ahead. I spoke with Cars.com senior editor Jennifer Newman (also a mother of two) and she offered up some tips on how to get your car ready for summer travel. Whether it’s longer family road trips or driving to and from day camps, parks and soccer games, you’ll be spending a lot more time in your car. Cars.com senior editor Jennifer Newman recommends some useful items to stock your car with to ensure your family’s car is summer ready. The 'It' List First-aid kit: Scrapes, cuts and plenty of tears are marks of summer. A well-stocked first-aid kit ensures that a boo-boo won't bring an early end to a day at the beach or playground. Towels: Throw a couple … [Read more...]